Frequently Asked Questions

What does VIHJA stand for?

Vancouver Island Hunter Jumper Association

What roles does the VIHJA play in the community?

-To operate as a non-political group consisting of coaches, riders, parents and owners for the purposes of promoting, developing and exhibiting hunter and show jumping equestrian events, training and riding.

- To promote, develop and provide communication, education, training and competition in the hunter and show jumping equestrian field.

- To provide for equipment and its storage related to hunter and show jumping competitions.

- To access all available funding to provide for the above-noted purposes.

Is the VIHJA the same as SSITS?

No. SSITS (Saanich Shows in the Sun) is its own organization. VIHJA helps to provide logistical support to SSITS and tracks points at SSITS events, but has no financial affiliation with SSITS.

What shows does the VIHJA run?

The only show the VIHJA organizes is the Annual Benefit Show.

Why did VIHJA switch to an annual membership?

To create more equal opportunities for riders, trainers, and non-competitors who would like to participate in VIHJA events, including shows, clinics, and participation in the Annual General Meeting.

Will it cost more money to have the yearly membership?

If you participate in more than one show this year, your annual membership fee will actually cost you between $10 and $60 less than it did when membership fees were combined with show fees.

How was the price determined for yearly memberships?

Membership prices were determined based on the cost of memberships with analogous organizations (such as the BCHJA), the cost of membership in previous years, and the costs incurred by the organization during service delivery.

Why is membership necessary?

Membership is necessary to provide VIHJA members with programming and services, fund events, track points, and most importantly, to insure riders who are participating in local horse shows.

Are my membership fees used to compensate the Board of Directors?

No. The VIHJA is a non-profit organization. The Board of Directors is staffed entirely by unpaid volunteers. Any annual shortfalls in revenue are borne by the organization, and any annual surplus brought in by the organization goes back to the community in the form of bursaries and increased operating budgets for annual events run by VIJHA such as the Benefit Show and the Hunt Ball.

Do I need to be a professional to be on the Board of Directors?

You do not need to be an equine professional to be on the Board. In fact, Board positions are entirely comprised of volunteers, and we encourage members of the public to apply to become Board members at Annual General Meeting. Board members do, however, need to be VIHJA members in good standing.

What is a family membership?

A family membership is a good choice for households that have multiple members competing at VIHJA sanctioned events or where parents may have one competing child, but the parent may wish to garner a voting interest at the Annual General Meeting.

How much is a family membership?

$70

When do I need to purchase my membership by?

Memberships need to be purchased before participating in any VIHJA event, including horse shows and the Annual General Meeting. Those who have not purchased a membership will not garner a voting interest at the Annual General Meeting.

Which shows will require membership?

April SSITS, May SSITS, Benefit Show, SSITS Finale.

Do trainers require membership?

Yes. All trainers will require membership to provide instruction at and participate in VIHJA events.

Do owners require membership?

No, membership is not required for owners of leased horses.

Where do I find the membership form?

You can find the membership form on the Membership Information page of the VIHJA website.

What methods of payment can I use to pay for my membership?

Payment can be made by credit card on our website after filling out the membership form. If you would like to pay via e-transfer, please contact us at hello.vihja@gmail.com with your information.

How long is my membership good for?

January 1- December 31

What if I purchase my membership midway through the year?

2024 Memberships are valid until December 31, 2024. Memberships do not carry over into the next year from the date of purchase.

Are memberships refundable if I choose not to show?

Unfortunately, memberships are not refundable.